Residents and business owners in Buena Park are protective of their property and environment overall. Committing property crimes in Buena Park can lead to a range of legal consequences, potentially bringing financial hardship, incarceration, or both. Following an arrest for property crimes, call Simmrin Law Group and secure legal representation from a property crimes lawyer in Buena Park.
Understanding Property Crimes
You can be charged with a property crime if you steal, destroy, deface, or damage someone else’s property. Theft-related property crimes involve the theft of property. The “property” stolen can be a physical object, such as a car, money, or a work of art. However, an offender can also steal labor or someone else’s name or identity. Non-theft-related property crimes involve damaging another’s property or trespassing.
For a free legal consultation with a property crimes lawyer serving Buena Park, call (310) 896-2723
Common Types of Property Crimes
Among other examples, common property crimes include
- Burglary: Entering a structure or locked vehicle with the intent to commit a crime. A person can be charged with burglary for entering a structure or vehicle, even if the intended crime is not completed.
- Larceny: Stealing, driving, or otherwise taking away someone else’s property is an act of theft or larceny. Appropriating another’s property or labor through fraud or receiving stolen property with the awareness that it was stolen also fits the criteria for larceny.
- Arson: To engage in the wilful, malicious act of burning, setting fire to, or aiding in the burning of a structure, property, or forest land is to commit arson under California law.
- Vandalism: Defacing, damaging, or destroying property belonging to someone else is an act of vandalism.
- Trespassing: To enter or remain on another owner’s property without their permission is an act of trespass.
Buena Park Property Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Punishments for Property Crimes
There is a wide range of potential punishments for property crimes. A skilled Buena Park property crimes lawyer from Simmrin Law Group can help protect you from the harshest punishments and ensure you are treated justly by the court system. While some offenses may only rise to the level of an infraction or violation, some are charged as misdemeanors and others as felonies.
Infraction
An infraction is a violation of a law but is not considered an actual crime. For example, if a hiker entered private property without a permit and the property, although fenced, did not have a “No trespass” sign, the trespass would likely be charged as an infraction. Infractions bring no possibility of jail time and a maximum fine of $250.
Misdemeanor
Misdemeanors are crimes, but not the most serious crimes. For example, shoplifting items worth $300 or acts of vandalism, as long as the damage incurred does not exceed $400, will probably be charged as a misdemeanor crime. If convicted, offenders can face a maximum of up to one year in jail and/or a $1000 fine.
Felony
Felonies are serious crimes. For example, burning down a business or private home is an act of arson and is considered a felony. First-degree burglary, which involves entering an inhabited dwelling, is also a felony. Felony sentences can range from one year to life in prison and/or fines of up to $10,000.
Some offenses fall into the “wobbler” category. They can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on additional factors. A Buena Park property crimes attorney can argue to reduce charges to the misdemeanor level.
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Three Strikes Rule
Some property crimes are subject to California’s three strikes sentencing law. Under these laws, offenders can see increased sentences upon a second “serious or violent” felony conviction and a mandatory prison sentence of 25 years to life for a third offense or strike.
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How a Property Crimes Attorney in Buena Park Will Help You
Just as when you are sick, you need the help of a medical professional, when charged with a property crime, you need the help of a legal professional. Throughout your case, your property crimes lawyer in Buena Park will be your voice and tireless advocate.
File and Represent
Your lawyer will complete and file all legal documentation accurately and on time and will represent you at every trial session with expert knowledge of Buena Park and California court proceedings.
Investigate and Analyze
With experience and skill in investigating alleged crimes, your lawyer will locate evidence, witnesses, or other relevant information to support your defense.
Your lawyer will also analyze the prosecution’s case against you, finding weaknesses or inconsistencies that work in your favor. For example, if your arrest was unlawful, your rights were compromised, or your alleged actions do not match the charges against you or the standard of law, your lawyer will recognize and fight against these injustices.
Address Aggravating and Mitigating Factors
Aggravating factors are aspects of your alleged involvement in the crime that can increase your punishment. If prejudice and hate motivate an act of vandalism, that motive may be ruled an aggravating factor.
Mitigating factors can potentially work to reduce your punishment and/or the charges against you. For example, if threats or coercion prompted your participation in the alleged crime or you committed the act while in an unhealthy mental state, you may receive leniency because of these mitigating factors.
An expert property crimes lawyer in Downey will argue against aggravating factors and introduce mitigating factors.
Negotiate
As an expert in law and negotiating, your lawyer can first communicate with the prosecution to reduce or dismiss the charges against you. If your case is not dismissed or you are convicted of the offense, your lawyer can negotiate for more lenient or alternative sentencing options.
A Property Crimes Lawyer in Buena Park Is Your Best Defense
Do not put your finances or freedom at risk. Your best defense against property crimes charges is a Buena Park property crimes attorney from Simmrin Law Group. Our group is dedicated to giving all defendants a powerful defense and ensuring their fair treatment under the law. Visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation today. We are on your side.
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